Very very sad over the break-in/cruel beating of a Patas monkey at Zoo Boise. Can’t get it out of my head.

Director of Zoo Boise, Steve Burns, said they were searching when they heard a groaning sound. “We didn’t know what it was, whether it was an animal or a human,” said Burns.

It was the severly injured monkey lying next to the fence near where the guard had seen the suspects. The monkey appeared to have a head injury. – Idaho Statesman (http://goo.gl/puCWJ)

Police found a baseball cap they think might belong to one of the perps responsible. Two groups are offering $1000 each for information leading to the capture of the criminals. Call or text “Crime Stoppers” if you have info, you can remain anonymous: (208) 343-COPS / text 274637, subject: tip236, or log onto www.343cops.com.

If the men who did this are found they may only be punished with a misdemeanor animal cruelty charge, and breaking and entering. In Idaho, felony animal cruelty charges only apply to someone with a third conviction. However, the zoo might be able to file property damages, as well.

All I can think about is this poor little guy’s suffering, and pain, before he died from neck and head trauma. This monkey shared a cage with another monkey, which is surely suffering from fear and confusion now too.

Some people think it’s odd that someone would be SO upset about this because it wasn’t a human; well, it was done by a human to helpless CAGED creature. I can only be compassionate to those who are also compassionate, caring, and value intelligence and decency.

If there is a BATMAN, now would be the time to appear – Justice must be served 😦

UPDATE: Boise PD found both suspects (one named Michael Watkins, a 22 y.o. of Weiser, ID) – someone recognized the baseball cap and reported it. Still so senseless, but at least the crime has been taken seriously.